J. Period ft. Black Thought, Posdnuos, and Pharoahe Monch, “Rise Up”

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It’s always great when hip-hop legends collide – especially for a cause. Such is the case with J. Period’s landmark linking of Black Thought, Posdnuos and Pharoahe Monch for “Rise Up,” the latest in an impressive collection of modern-day hip-hop protest anthems. The three MCs cut the powerful production zero slack with their incisive, passionately-delivered lyrics that not only call out the system’s flaws, but surmise (nonviolent) solutions for the resistance. UK Singer Joss Stone adds her soulful vocals throughout the track.

“America is like Black-and-white dice tumbling,” Pharoahe Monch with the opening verse, after noting the visibility he has as a celebrity is akin to leaders of the past. Pos follows up, reflecting that, “if we want to rise up then put the lies up, know the truth make sure you read the size up yourself before you judge.” Batting in the 3-hole, Black Thought sums up the track’s urgent topic with a blistering verse that challenges the lack of accountability for the deaths of people of color, and predicts a scenario in which society will collectively “rise to a volume that’s impossible to silence.”